, then select "Add to Home Screen" to get instant access.
Log In
Explore
Cheeses
Cheesemakers
Types
Pairings
Cheese Map
Free Tools
Munster Cheese vs Parmesan Cheese
Munster Cheese
Parmesan Cheese
In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Munster Cheese and Parmesan Cheese, including:
- "What is the difference between Munster Cheese and Parmesan Cheese?"
- "Is Munster Cheese and Parmesan Cheese the same?"
- "How does Munster Cheese compare to Parmesan Cheese cheese?"
- "How does the taste of Munster Cheese compare to Parmesan Cheese?"
- "Is Munster Cheese or Parmesan Cheese better?"
Munster Cheese Overview
Munster is a strong-smelling, soft cheese from the Alsace and Lorraine regions of France. It has a washed rind, which gives it a red-orange color and a distinctive pungent aroma. The flavor is rich and tangy, often enjoyed with cumin seeds and paired with beers or strong wines.
Parmesan Cheese Overview
Parmesan, often referred to by its Italian name, Parmigiano-Reggiano, is a hard, granular cheese known for its rich flavor and grainy texture. Made from cow's milk, it's aged for a minimum of 12 months, often much longer, to develop its distinct nutty and savory profile. Parmesan is a staple in Italian cuisine, commonly grated over pasta dishes, stirred into soups, or eaten on its own.
Comparing the Two Cheeses
Country of Origin
Munster Cheese comes from France. Parmesan Cheese originated from Italy.
Certification
Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Munster Cheese has a AOC (1969). Parmesan is not a protected cheese.
Milk Type and Treatment
Munster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized. Parmesan Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized.
Composition and Texture
Munster Cheese has a fat content of 45-48%. Munster's texture can be described as "semisoft". Parmesan's texture can be described as "hard, artisan".
Taste and Aroma
Munster Cheese has a strong, gamey taste. Munster's aroma can be described as "gamey, aromatic". Parmesan Cheese has a salty, savory taste. Parmesan's aroma can be described as "nutty, strong".
Appearance and Aging
Munster Cheese's appearance is colored orangey-pink to orange-red , is available in flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter and is aged 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months . Parmesan Cheese has a color of straw .
Rind and Rennet Type
Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution and uses traditional rennet. Parmesan Cheese's rind is described as natural .
Ranking
Munster is ranked #46 out of 996 types based on community views. Parmesan is ranked #40 out of 996 types based on community views.
Pairing Comparison
| Munster | Parmesan | |
|---|---|---|
| Best Pairings | German Riesling, Riesling | No pairings listed. |
| Other Good Pairings | Belgian Blonde | Shrimp |
For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Munster and Parmesan pages.
Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Munster Cheese | Parmesan Cheese | |
|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | France | Italy |
| Specific Origin | Alsace, Lorraine, Franche-Comté | Not Specified |
| Certification | AOC (1969) | Not Specified |
| Milk Type | Cow's milk | Cow's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Unpasteurized | Unpasteurized |
| Fat Content | 45-48% | Not Specified |
| Rind | Washed, saltwater solution | Natural |
| Texture | Semisoft | Hard, artisan |
| Taste | Strong, gamey | Salty, savory |
| Aroma | Gamey, aromatic | Nutty, strong |
| Colors | Orangey-pink to orange-red | Straw |
| Forms | Flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter | Not Specified |
| Age | 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months | Not Specified |
| Rennet Type | Traditional rennet | Not Specified |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you prefer a semisoft cheese, go for Munster. But if you enjoy a hard, artisan consistency, Parmesan might be the better pick. Munster has a strong, gamey taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Parmesan offers a salty, savory profile, ideal for different meals.
